Microbiology Research Associate

Position Overview:

Terragia is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Microbiology Research Associate. The research associate will play an important role in contributing to the microbiology team at Terragia, which is a key group within our R&D organization. Terragia’s technology produces low-carbon ethanol from biomass using consolidated bioprocessing (CBP) and engineered thermophilic bacteria. The microbiology team leads organism and process development. A strategic project is underway to develop anaerobic bacteria and fermentation systems for converting cellulose- and hemicellulose-containing biomass to ethanol in an advanced CBP configuration. This involves using a defined consortium of engineered thermophilic anaerobic bacteria without thermochemical pretreatment, exogenous enzymes, or yeast. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking advancements in biofuel technology while working in a collaborative and fast-paced startup environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct goal-oriented research and technology development using classical and molecular biology with a level of independence and responsibility commensurate with education and experience.

• Conduct laboratory activities in order to demonstrate and improve a bacterial system for production of ethanol from renewable feedstocks.

• Provide general experimental support to the microbiology team.

• Keep careful records of actions and results.

• Report outcomes to company management and other members of the team.

Qualifications:

• Bachelors or Masters degree in microbiology, chemical or biological engineering, biotechnology, biochemistry or related field.

• Demonstrated achievement in the laboratory is desired, especially in areas of microbial cultivation, isolation, fermentation and physiology.

• Experience and knowledge of anaerobic bacterial metabolism and analytical equipment is especially desirable.

• Good communication and interpersonal skills are required, and a sensible, adaptable, and innovative attitude is desirable.

• The best candidate will be able to take responsibility for overcoming technical challenges and getting things done, but also work well within a larger team.

• Effective communication skills and ability to collaborate across teams.

Benefits:

• Industry-competitive salary and compensation.

• Comprehensive health and dental insurance plans.

• Company 401k (non-matching).

• Competitive health savings account (HSA) contributions.

• Future stock options in a rapidly expanding startup

• Opportunities for professional development and advancement.

About Terragia:

Terragia (terragia.com) is a startup founded in October 2022 dedicated to development and commercial deployment of low-cost technology for production of low-carbon biofuels. Built on decades of pioneering research led by Chief Technology Officer and co-Founder Lee Lynd, Terragia’s unique consolidated bioprocessing (CBP) technology has documented potential to be cost-competitive with fossil fuels while realizing net removal of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. We are inspired by the prospect of playing a key role in climate stabilization and rural economic development and are looking to rapidly add capable individuals to our team.